Stage Details

Legislation -
Bill Sent To Committee
(Senate)
-
Feb. 25, 1998

Legislation -
Bill Passed
(House)
(350-59) -
Feb. 24, 1998(Key vote)

Vote Result

Yea Votes

Nay Votes

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases the mandatory minimum prison sentence for possession of a firearm while committing a federal crime.

Highlights:

Sets the following mandatory minimum sentences: 10 years in prison for possession of a firearm while committing a crime, 15 years in prison for brandishing a firearm while committing a crime, and 20 years in prison for discharging a firearm while committing a crime.

Increases each of the above sentences by at least 10 years for a second offense.

Sets a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if a machinegun or firearm equipped with a silencer is used while committing a crime and sets a minimum sentence of life imprisonment if either is used in a second offense.

Note:

NOTE: THIS VOTE WAS TAKEN UNDER A SUSPENSION OF THE RULES TO CUT OFF DEBATE EARLY AND VOTE TO PASS THE BILL, THEREBY REQUIRING A TWO-THIRDS MAJORITY FOR PASSAGE.